Tributes pour in for Donald Trump's younger brother Robert
Political colleagues and rivals have offered their condolences to President Donald Trump following the death of his youngest brother and “best friend” Robert.
“It is with (a) heavy heart I share that my wonderful brother, Robert, peacefully passed away tonight,” Trump said in a statement.
“He was not just my brother, he was my best friend. He will be greatly missed, but we will meet again. His memory will live on in my heart forever.
“Robert, I love you. Rest in peace.”
Trump’s opponent in the upcoming election Joe Biden extended his sympathies from him and his wife.
“I hope you know that our prayers are with you all.”
Biden’s running mate, Kamala Harris, also offered her condolences.
And Trump’s Vice President, Mike Pence, also shared a few kind words.
Karen and I were saddened to learn of the passing of Robert Trump and we send our heartfelt sympathies to President @realDonaldTrump and the entire Trump Family. We pray their family and friends will be comforted during this difficult time. God bless the memory of Robert Trump.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) August 16, 2020
A cause of death has not yet been revealed, but according to The Sun, Robert, who took blood thinners, had been suffering from brain bleeds since a recent fall.
He was reportedly “very ill” when he was admitted into hospital.
The 71-year-old was a senior executive at the Trump Organisation.
He was paid a visit by the president when he returned to hospital on Friday, at New York-Presbyterian in Manhattan, after spending a week in intensive care in June.
Donald Trump had paid tribute to Robert at the White House a day earlier, saying: “I have a wonderful brother. We’ve had a great relationship for a long time, from Day 1, a long time ago.”
Mr Trump’s children also paid tribute to their uncle.
“Robert Trump was an incredible man – strong, kind and loyal to the core,” said Eric Trump.
“He will be deeply missed by our entire family.”
Ivanka Trump said: “Uncle Robert, we love you. You are in our hearts and prayers, always.”
While he was a low-key member of the Trump real estate empire, Robert Trump held senior positions in the family real estate and hotel business and was in charge of its operations in Atlantic City.